Alex judged the Veteran Championships at Arena UK today.

See what he thinks about the rule about not using spurs at this competition...

Inspiring partnerships…

Well today I was totally inspired by some lovely, attractive work by veteran horses (and ponies) at Arena UK at the veteran championships.

There’s a rule that no spurs are allowed at this competition. For some it worked in their favor and for others, quite the opposite. The ones that responded well to the leg were ‘on the aids’ and remained nicely in front of the leg.

Others that clearly relied on spurs to create the activity required to get the necessary engagement to achieve self carriage, well they suffered. Sometimes it was a case of these being ridden between schooling whip and hand, not a lot of seat used.

A willing, happy horse in his/her work responds to the leg and seat well and doesn’t rely on spurs to create forward propulsion, whatever their age. Some get a little dead to the leg with age but this can be trained out with correct schooling / training.

As always with my judging there were plenty of 9s and a few 2s and 3s too. The winner was 80% and I really enjoyed using the FULL range of marks!

All in all, I was truly inspired by the flexibility, submission and above all ‘enthusiasm’ of these veterans to perform, and often to a very good standard.

The formula to getting your veteran working well is long and complex. It includes exercise routine, training, schooling, feeding as well as genes and physical capability….. But I do honestly believe that supplements play a small but very noticeable role in this formula and I’m certain that we can deliver the best for your veteran by regenerating connective tissues at optimim levels and promoting comfort/mobility.